The entire North Island has officially been declared a drought zone.
The announcement was made on a Manawatu sheep and beef farm by Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy this morning.
Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Hawkes Bay have already been declared to be in drought.
Manawatu, Rangitikei, Taranaki, East Coast, Wairarapa and Wellington have now been added to that list.
The declaration means that farmers in these regions will be entitled to receive Government assistance.
The drought is predicted to cost the economy $1 billion as hard-hit farmers struggle to feed stock.
Climate scientist Jim Salinger said yesterday the North Island had not experienced a drought so severe for 70 years, and warned that such events could become more frequent.
Wellington is estimated to have just 18 days of water left while Aucklanders are being warned about the impact of the city's driest summer in 50 years.
Cyclone Sandra is expected to bring rain to most places this weekend - the first decent fall since mid-January - with showers to follow on Monday.
People throughout the North Island are being asked to conserve water.
Mr Guy said it had become clear that nearly all farmers in every part of the North Island are facing very difficult dry conditions.
Extra Government funding will be available to Rural Support Trusts who work closely with farmers, providing support and guidance.
There will also be rural assistance payments - equivalent to the unemployment benefit - available from Work and Income to those in extreme hardship.
"Many rural people can be reluctant to ask for help, but it is important for them to know that support is available," Mr Guy said.
"This is a difficult time for rural families and they need to know that the Government and all New Zealanders are behind them.
"Some rain is forecast this weekend which is welcome news. However we will need more than this to help prepare for the winter and set up for next spring.
"Parts of the South Island are also very dry, in particular the Grey and Buller districts. We are keeping a close watch on all further regions."
Farmer should contact their accountants or the IRD if they need help or flexibility with making tax payments, Mr Guy said. Standard hardship assistance is available from Work and Income.
